Pistons dominated the first half but the Mavericks would not go away, outscoring the Pistons 56-36 in the second half. However, SVG’s crew did just enough as Reggie Jackson’s timely shots and Tobias Harris’ free throws kept the Mavs at bay. KCP also hit a crucial 15-foot pull-up jumper to seal the victory.

Did ESPN Senior Writer Zach Lowe’s article inspire Reggie Jackson? Reggie Jackson had one of his best games of the season with 22 points and 4 assists. Most importantly, Jackson shot efficiently, going 8-12 from the field. However, after a breakaway dunk (below) Jackson did come down awkwardly on his knee and showed a noticeable limp for the rest of the game.

Jon Leuer busted out of his mini-slump pouring in 20 points and 8 rebounds. KCP had 18 points and off the bench, Harris pitched in with 13. Andre Drummond had 9 points and 11 rebounds.

As for the Mavs, future Hall-of-Famer Dirk Nowitzki defied Father Time yet again, leading the team with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Harrison Barnes, Dallas’ biggest offseason acquisition, scored 16 points while Deron Williams posted 12 points with 6 assists.

Overall, the Pistons nearly gave this one away. SVG’s crew shot 43% from the field and 30% from downtown, hitting only 6 three-pointers. Luckily, the Mavs shot even worse (38.5%fg, 27.8%3pt). Optimistically, the Pistons showed real grit by hitting timely shots and anchoring down just enough defensively to win the game.

Now, the Detroit Pistons get the next week off to vacation and hopefully, rest, as none of them are going to the All-Star game. Pistons will return next Thursday to take on the underperforming Charlotte Hornets (24-33) at the Palace of Auburn Hills.